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Yugo continues momentum with appointment of Simon J. Leopold as Global CFO 



Denver, CO, 3rd March 2022 Yugo, the first global student housing brand and operator, announces the appointment of Simon J. Leopold as its US-based Global Chief Financial Officer. Simon will lead the global finance function and compliance teams, while working with key stakeholders to support Yugo’s strategic growth targets, with a focus on both operational performance and profitability.


Simon brings strong financial leadership, capital markets experience, and relationships that will help Yugo to scale globally and achieve its growth strategy. This appointment also builds on Yugo’s momentum as it continues to expand and enhance the student experience, both during and beyond college and university life, as students are empowered to grow personally under the Live Your Best Life program developed from Yugo’s research of thousands of students worldwide.


Since launching in July 2021, Yugo undertook an extensive global executive search for this position, which is paramount to developing and securing future opportunities, while building upon the successful partnership with Global Student Accommodation.


Simon has more than 20 years of experience in the real estate and banking sectors. Most recently, he was Chief Financial Officer at Taubman Centers and Agree Realty, two US-listed REITs, where he oversaw all finance functions and demonstrated his ability to deliver on global mandates. During this time, he gained significant experience in financial reporting, tax, investor relations, banking, M&A, corporate strategy, and asset management. Prior to this, Simon spent over 13 years as a Managing Director in the real estate investment banking groups at Deutsche Bank, KBW and UBS.


Aly El-Bassuni, Chief Executive Officer of Yugo, commented:


“Simon’s appointment is an integral part of Yugo’s future and growth, as the business continues to expand successfully across the global student housing sector. With a strong track record, he brings significant strength to our executive team, with deep expertise from both the real estate and banking industries. We look forward to the impact he can make as we deliver connected living spaces for students across the world.”


Simon J. Leopold, Global Chief Financial Officer of Yugo, commented:


“I am thrilled to join Yugo and I look forward to working alongside the global executive committee to drive performance and position the company for growth. There are significant opportunities in student housing, and it’s an exciting time for the sector as a whole as the international student community continues to grow driven by demand for education.”